OI came, OI saw, OI conquered

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The Jewish band Oi Va Voi aim to give a positive message through music. Nigel Williamson joined them on a triumphant tour

Oi Va Voi are in Jerusalem being interviewed by Israeli TV news. The arrival of Britain’s most cutting-edge Jewish band is a major story but, with the dramatic scenery of the Wailing Wall as a backdrop, the interviewer is more interested in their views on Middle Eastern politics than their music. “We’re not tub-thumping, but there is a humanitarian message to our music,” says Lemez Lovas. “One of our songs is called Refugee. That’s a big issue in Britain right now, as well as here.” He doesn’t specifically mention Palestinian rights, but everyone takes his meaning.